Matchroom Boxing Chairman Eddie Hearn has dismissed circulating reports claiming that British heavyweight star Anthony Joshua has reached an agreement to fight American YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul next month. According to Hearn, the rumours are premature and overshadow the real roadmap being built for Joshua — one that points toward a blockbuster collision with Tyson Fury in 2026.
The speculation intensified after online reports suggested a possible short-notice showdown between Joshua and Paul. But speaking across various UK media outlets, Hearn clarified that while conversations have indeed taken place, nothing has been finalised. He stressed that Joshua remains focused on bigger, legacy-defining bouts and is not rushing into any unplanned contest.
No Confirmed Deal With Jake Paul
In an interview with BBC 5 Live, Hearn addressed the rumours directly, saying the fight is only a remote possibility at this stage.
“Possibly. Everyone jumped the gun last night,” he said. “There have been some conversations, but our focus is on 2026. We have a big fight planned for February and then, hopefully, a huge one against Tyson Fury next summer.”
Joshua, who has not been in the ring for fourteen months, is expected to take a warm-up fight in early 2025. Hearn noted that after such a long layoff, easing back into competition is essential — but that does not automatically translate into a match with Jake Paul.
“We may run out in 2025 and have a low-key fight somewhere,” Hearn continued. “If that is going to go and destroy the run of Mr. Paul and make tens of millions in the process, maybe. Nothing is confirmed yet.”
His comments extinguish growing speculation that a Joshua–Paul fight was imminent, reminding fans that although commercially tempting, the bout is not currently the priority.
Saudi Backing for Joshua–Fury 2026 Superfight
While the Jake Paul narrative captured online attention, Hearn said the real focus is on securing a fight British boxing fans have waited years to see: Joshua vs Tyson Fury. He confirmed that Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, has personally committed to making the megafight happen in 2026.
Speaking to talkSPORT, Hearn explained that the long-awaited showdown has become a central part of Saudi Arabia’s growing investment in global boxing.
“Next year, we will fight in February and then we will fight Tyson Fury if Turki Alalshikh delivers on his plans and strategies,” Hearn said. “We spoke with him in London this week. Everything that we do with Anthony Joshua will be in accordance with and under the guidance of Turki Alalshikh.”
Hearn praised Alalshikh’s influence and vision, noting that recent years have proven his effectiveness in bringing major fights to life.
“He has given us amazing opportunities,” Hearn said. “And the game plan will be put together with him.”
Alalshikh Leading Negotiations With Tyson Fury
Hearn further revealed that it is Alalshikh — not Joshua’s camp — who is handling direct negotiations with Tyson Fury and his team.
“It is Turki Alalshikh’s responsibility to talk to Tyson Fury and try and make the deal,” Hearn explained. “I cannot tell you we are fighting Tyson Fury. What I can tell you is Turki Alalshikh has told us, ‘I am going to make AJ vs Tyson Fury. This is your deal. Do you accept?’ We have accepted.”
But while Joshua’s side has already agreed to the terms, the match cannot yet be declared official.
“Is the fight made? No,” Hearn said. “Because I do not know where he is at with Tyson Fury. All I know is he is yet to fail in delivering a fight.”
The statement reinforces the immense influence Saudi Arabia now holds in global boxing — an influence that has already produced mega-events featuring Tyson Fury, Oleksandr Usyk, Anthony Joshua, Deontay Wilder, and many others.
A Carefully Planned Road to 2026
Despite rumours of a sudden fight with Jake Paul, the broader plan for Joshua seems clear: a February 2025 return bout, followed by preparations for the Fury showdown in 2026.
The February fight is expected to serve as a tune-up to ensure that Joshua returns to peak form before engaging in back-to-back blockbuster events. Sources indicate that several heavyweights are being considered, though Hearn declined to reveal any names.
As for Jake Paul, Hearn acknowledged that fighting the influencer-turned-boxer is not off the table entirely. With Paul’s growing following, undefeated run, and financial pull, the match would generate enormous global attention. But such a contest would only be entertained if it fits seamlessly into Joshua’s long-term plan and does not derail his path to Tyson Fury.
Boxing Fans React
News of a possible Joshua–Paul fight triggered mixed reactions in the boxing community, with some fans calling it a spectacle fight and others arguing it could draw new audiences into the sport. However, many expressed relief after Hearn’s clarification, emphasising the importance of securing Joshua–Fury before either fighter reaches the twilight of their career.
The proposed 2026 date gives both camps ample time to negotiate, train, and build global hype for what could become one of the biggest heavyweight boxing events in decades.
The Bigger Picture
As Saudi Arabia continues reshaping the landscape of global boxing, events like Joshua–Fury represent more than just personal rivalries — they mark a shift in where the world’s biggest fights are staged, financed, and broadcast.
With Turki Alalshikh at the centre of these developments, fighters and promoters increasingly view Saudi Arabia as boxing’s new capital for mega-events. Joshua’s camp recognises this and is fully aligning its long-term strategy with Saudi leadership.
For now, fans will await Joshua’s official February opponent announcement — while keeping a close eye on developments between Fury, Alalshikh, and Hearn.
One thing remains certain: the road to 2026 is already being paved.
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